Healthy teeth and gums are signs of regular pet dental care. At St. Francis Hospital for Animals, we recommend your pet have annual exams and cleanings to protect his oral health. Our comprehensive dental services will protect your pet against dental issues that can impair his overall health. Here’s what you should know about pet dental care.
Dental Exam and Cleaning
Your pet’s dental exam begins with a thorough inspection of his mouth to verify the condition of his teeth and gums. Your veterinarian may take x-rays to examine your pet’s teeth beneath the gum line where dental disease often starts. We’ll then clean your pet’s teeth to remove plaque and tartar and polish them to make them gleam.
Our pet dental services are performed under anesthesia so your pet feels no discomfort or pain. Sedating your pet enables our veterinarian to examine, clean, and x-ray his teeth without stress or pressure. The anesthesia keeps your pet calm throughout its dental procedures, so we can do a thorough job.
We recommend you bring your pet to our clinic annually for dental care. If your pet has dental problems, these problems will be detected during his annual exam, so he can receive immediate treatment. Early treatment could help preserve your pet’s teeth.
Symptoms of Dental Problems in Pets
Bad breath is one of the early warning signs that your pet may have a problem in his mouth. Other signs include:
- Discolored or loose teeth
- Swollen or bleeding gums
- Trouble chewing
- Excessive drooling
- Loss of appetite
- Pain
Dental problems can turn a docile pet into an angry, irritable one due to pain and discomfort. If your pet’s behavior changes for no apparent reason, bring him to Dr. Marvin Altom or Dr. Anna Lopez for a checkup. He could be suffering from dental problems.
Types of Dental Problems in Pets
Pets develop many of the same dental issues as people, including broken teeth, discolored teeth, periodontal disease, abscesses, fractured jaws, and misaligned teeth, to name a few. Many dogs and cats show signs of periodontal disease by the time they’re three years of age. Left untreated, periodontal disease can cause tooth loss and heart, kidney, and liver problems.
Home Dental Care
You can do your part to improve your pet’s oral health at home by brushing his teeth regularly with pet toothpaste. Brushing cleans your pet’s teeth to minimize plaque. You can also invest in chew toys and treats designed to prevent tartar buildup on your pet’s teeth.
Pet Dental Care in Oakdale, NY
Call St. Francis Hospital for Animals today at (631) 567-1359 for more information or to schedule an appointment with our veterinriaian.
